YOUNGSTERS at a Coventry school have watched an ancient oak tree turn into a giant crocodile and fun seating for their grounds.

The tree in the playing field at Whitley Abbey Primary School was condemned after rot set in.

It had to be felled but staff were keen to somehow retain the timber for the school in Ashington Grove, Whitley, and decided to call on the services of the man known as Chainsaw Mick.

Teacher Alison Dix, the school's art co-ordinator, said: "I found Chainsaw Mick, who turns felled trees into sculptures, on the internet, and it seemed an attractive way of using the wood for the school."

Chainsaw Mick, otherwise known as Mick Burns, from Lincoln, said: "I originally trained in forestry, but started to branch out into chain-saw sculpture about 10 years ago.

"It has been very popular in America for a long time, but is now getting more widely known here."

Mick's work - the nickname comes from his e-mail address - is in demand for private gardens, schools, public spaces and art galleries.

The basic shape is carved with a chainsaw, with finer instruments used to create the more intricate detail.

With Mick's skill, the old oak has found new life as a fun crocodile and quirky wooden seats for the youngsters to enjoy at playtimes.

Pupil Helen Austin, aged eight, said: "We used to use the tree which had a very big trunk to hide behind when we played hide and seek.

"Now we will have even more fun with the crocodile and seats made from the wood."

Catherine Cordiner, the school's music and PE co-ordinator, added: "The project was part of our arts week which has also included a visit from Norwich Young People's theatre who have run dance, drama and music workshops.

"The children have also taken part in a range of activities from arts and crafts to cookery and singing.